safari Archives - Natty Gal

Would you believe me if I told you that you could get a safari-like experience without ever leaving the mid-West? Well, I’m about to tell you just how!

History

Nestled on a reclaimed strip-mine property located in Guernsey County, Ohio, The Wilds came into existence in 1978, when the Ohio DNR, Ohio Zoos and private sector formed a public-private partnership with the goal of transforming the land into a refuge for endangered wildlife and habitats. Open to the public since 1994, the project has expanded considerably in the past 20+ years. The Wilds now boasts a diverse array of animals, from the common trumpeter swan to more exotic varieties such as Grevy’s Zebra and Southern White Rhino.

Activities

The Wilds offers a variety of daily tours as well as several specialty tours (fishing safari, horseback safari, zip line safari, etc.) But the real fun starts with an overnight stay! The Yurts at Nomad Ridge provide adult-only accommodation with sweeping views of the animal pasture areas. Far from city lights and traffic, you’ll marvel at the dense night sky as you listen to the various animal calls while enjoying a wine at the fire pit.

Accommodations

As you can see from the pictures below, these aren’t real roughing-it style yurts. The adventure began right after check-in when we met our group for a sunset safari. You get really close up to the animals during this special tour that includes large cat feeding and a trip to the rhino house. The safari was followed by a buffet dinner in the visitor center then back to the yurt to pick up some wine and sit by the fire pit. Some of the other yurt guests also opted for fire time and we had a great time with new friends. Tons of stars were visible on the walk back to the yurt. Some of the animal noises made for a restless, if not interesting night! We got up and after a quick shower had breakfast, again at the visitor center. After check out we stayed and did the regular daytime tour with lots more animals on view!